A stunning dessert for the holiday season, this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake combines the rich flavors of red velvet with the creamy indulgence of white chocolate and cream cheese frosting. It’s a treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to share with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for the holidays: The vibrant red color and festive decorations make it a showstopper for Christmas gatherings.
Easy to prepare: Made with a boxed cake mix and simple toppings, it’s beginner-friendly and stress-free.
Irresistible flavor: Moist red velvet cake infused with sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate creates a rich and decadent taste.
Make-ahead dessert: It tastes even better after chilling, so you can prepare it in advance.
Customizable toppings: Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or your favorite holiday decorations to make it your own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
1(14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
For the Topping:
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Festive sprinkles or holiday-themed decorations (optional)
Directions
Bake the Cake:
Preheat your oven and prepare the red velvet cake according to the package instructions using a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
Poke the Cake:
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke evenly spaced holes all over the cake.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and White Chocolate:
In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and melted white chocolate until smooth.
Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let it rest for 30 minutes to absorb the mixture and cool completely.
Prepare the Topping:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a fluffy frosting.
Frost the Cake:
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Decorate:
Add festive sprinkles or holiday decorations to the frosted cake. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add chocolate shavings or drizzle chocolate syrup over the frosting for an extra indulgence.
Peppermint Delight: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for a festive, minty touch.
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping to accommodate dietary needs.
Individual Portions: Make the recipe in cupcake form for single-serving desserts.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: This cake is best served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it’s too chilled.
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FAQs
How can I ensure the cake stays moist?
Pouring the sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate mixture into the holes immediately after poking helps lock in moisture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is ideal for making a day in advance as the flavors meld and improve with time.
Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! A homemade red velvet cake will work perfectly for this recipe.
What can I use instead of whipped topping?
You can use stabilized whipped cream as an alternative to Cool Whip.
Are there other decorations I can use besides sprinkles?
Yes, try edible glitter, chocolate curls, or even fondant decorations for a festive touch.
Conclusion
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for your holiday celebrations. Easy to make, customizable, and visually stunning, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. Give it a try and enjoy the magic of this festive dessert!
📖 Recipe:
PrintChristmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (+ chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive and indulgent, this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake combines the rich flavors of red velvet, creamy white chocolate, and fluffy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holiday celebrations!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box red velvet cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as listed on the box)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
For the Topping:
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Festive sprinkles or holiday decorations (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven and prepare the red velvet cake mix as per the package instructions in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake and cool for 10 minutes.
- Poke the Cake:
- Use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes all over the cake.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and White Chocolate:
- Mix sweetened condensed milk with melted white chocolate in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Cool for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Topping:
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently.
- Frost the Cake:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake.
- Decorate:
- Add sprinkles or festive decorations. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
This cake can be made a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Variations: Add peppermint candies, chocolate shavings, or nuts for customization.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 380 kcal (per serving, based on 12 servings)